Concrete is a familiar substance that is highly versatile, making it one of the most sought-after construction materials.
Be that as it may, its manufacturing process significantly contributes to carbon dioxide production, and even though home and business owners are increasingly aware of the negative environmental impact and thus explore concrete alternatives, nothing will duplicate the durability and adaptability of using concrete.
Thankfully, a solution is emerging, as construction specialists have started incorporating recycled concrete that would otherwise fill landfills and adversely affect communities. As a result, there is less lingering demolished material and fewer reasons to seek out viable concrete alternatives.
Understanding Recycled Concrete
Constructed from pieces of crushed and repurposed fragments of pre-existing concrete, recycled concrete is a durable material that can be seen in countless construction, landscaping, and home improvement projects, including parking structures, highways, and urban driveways.
Recycling concrete involves a detailed process using magnets to remove metals and other waste fragments to prevent a subpar-quality product. After the debris has been disposed of correctly, the remaining chunks of concrete are crushed to the required size for the next project.
Why You Should Consider Using Recycled Concrete
Using recycled concrete can help create a more sustainable environment and safeguard natural assets. By moving demolished concrete to a recycling facility, qualified individuals can break down the pieces, effectively helping local neighborhoods through the following means:
Environmental Impact
On an environmental level, turning something old into something new reduces the need for always-fresh materials. The process conserves the planet’s resources and minimizes the carbon footprint of those in the industry. Additionally, creating new concrete requires substantial energy, the amount of which is reduced when recycled materials are pursued instead.
Economic Impact
Opting for recycled concrete is more cost-effective than investing in fresh material, thus lowering the overall costs of various projects. These saved resources can then be redirected toward other areas of the job or used to fund additional projects that enhance the community. For instance, recycled concrete can be used as a base to improve roads or mixed to produce landscaping stones.
Social Impact
Businesses secure reasonably priced supplies when they access recycled concrete for their refurbishment projects. These lower prices lead to savings they can eventually pass on to their customers, who will welcome the lowered prices and — in turn — have extra money to contribute to the community by supporting local businesses.
How to Recycle Concrete
With the rise in popularity of recycled concrete over concrete alternatives, contractors and project managers must consider the concrete recycling process. With that said, however, recycling methods often fluctuate based on the type and size of the concrete in question.
A building materials firm can transport your material to a plant for recycling or use an onsite mobile crushing machine. Every project has unique needs, so speaking with a materials specialist will provide you with the most accurate information.
Explore More About Recycled Concrete Today
Call American Precast Concrete today to learn more about the products used during our projects.